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How truck insurance works
More coverage, more policies, and tougher adjusters. Here's what to expect.
Federal minimums
| Type of carrier (interstate, for-hire) | Typical federal minimum |
|---|---|
| General freight (non-hazardous), trucks 10,001 lbs+ | $750,000 |
| Oil and certain hazardous materials | $1,000,000 |
| Certain other hazardous materials | $5,000,000 |
Many carriers carry more than the minimum, including excess or umbrella policies.
More than one policy
The tractor, the trailer, the carrier, the owner and the shipper may each have coverage. Identifying all of them early prevents money from being left on the table.
Naming the insurer in Georgia
Georgia law allows, in some cases, the motor carrier's insurance company to be named directly in the lawsuit alongside the carrier.
Your own coverage
If the truck's coverage isn't enough, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM) coverage may help. There are notice requirements, so tell us about every policy in your household.
Before you sign: Never sign a release or cash a settlement check from any insurer before talking to a lawyer. A release usually ends your claim against everyone it names.